june 2011
Women of Significance “You are Valuable Right Where You Are!”
Team Work Makes the Dream Work!
WOS on the Move . . . Reaching Out and Connecting! In the United States . . . GA, TN, NJ, CA, VA, NC, SC, MD, OK, CA, PA, TX, NH, IN, FL, CO, AZ, WI, NY, HI
. . . AND around the world! PAKISTAN • CHINA • AUSTRALIA • FIJI NEW ZEALAND • JAMAICA • GERMANY • AFRICA!
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Women of Significance / June 2011
Team Work Makes the Dream Work Dr. Cheryl Hill Visionary
Hello Women of Significance, This month’s edition will speak a little to teamwork. God is the “author” of teamwork. He, Jesus and the Holy Spirit are the ones who make your dreams work! Let’s look closely at life and you will see that no matter what you in some way or another you affect someone else. There is nothing done under the sun that does not have an effect on someone else. Adam needed Eve, Moses needed Aaron and you need others to help you accomplish your assignment and dreams. Being a lone ranger is a selfish act and it will not prosper. This month let us take a look at what our dreams are and how we can accomplish our dreams with the right people on our team. In business or in ministry you will need a team. I will be praying that God will change our courses so that we will not miss our destiny because we have not been “team players”. We shall meet our purpose in “Jesus Name”. –
Dr. Cheryl
Below are some quotes to ponder on concerning team work:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only “The way a team plays as a whole determines its success. thing that ever does.”- Margaret Mead None of us is as smart as all of us.- Japanese proverb You may have the greatest bunch of individual stars in the world, but if they don’t play together, the club won’t “Snowflakes are one of nature’s most fragile things, but be worth a dime.”- Babe Ruth just look at what they can do when they stick together.” It is amazing how much people get done if they don’t worry about who gets the credit.- Swahili proverb
“Many hands make light work.”- John Heywood
-Vesta Kelly
“Michael, if you can’t pass, you can’t play.”- Coach Dean Smith to Michael Jordan in his freshman year at UNC.
“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.”- Henry Ford
“There is no ‘i’ in TEAMWORK.” - Unknown “In cooperative situations, others are depending on you to succeed. In competitive situations, others hope to see you fail.”- Unknown A team should never practice on a field that is not lined. Your players have to become aware of the field’s boundaries.- Former NFL Coach John Madden
“Strength lies in differences, not in similarities.” -Stephen Covey “One finger cannot lift a pebble.”- Hopi Saying “In the end, all business operations can be reduced to three words: people, product and profits. Unless you’ve got a good team, you can’t do much with the other two.” - Lee Iacocca
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Let’s Make the Dream Come True! Deborah C. Phillips
Editor-in-Chief
Women of Significance! God has equipped us all with talents and gifts to benefit the body . . . specifically the Body of Believers and for the world in general! So many of us don’t stretch ourselves to be what God has created us to be, so we go about doing things that don’t build us up, spiritually, mentally, financially or otherwise. We do have to give an account of how we spend our time here on this earth, in these bodies. It is incumbent upon each of us to find out what our God-ordained gifts are and to be about doing the work. It will take dedication and love to seek out this purpose for our lives and devotion to live out the rest of our lives to bring it to fruition. Jesus said that “My meat is to do the will of Him that sent me, and to finish His work.” [John 4:34]. The Message Bible states it this way . . . “The food that keeps me going is that I do the will of the One who sent me, finishing the work He started. As you look around right now, wouldn’t you say that in about four months it will be time to harvest? Well, I’m telling you to open your eyes and take a good look at what’s right in front of you. These Samaritan fields are ripe. It’s harvest time!” There is a lot of work to do! In the House of God and outside in the fields! Yes, there will be a harvest. But will your harvest be an empty, barren one or will it be bountiful and lush?!!! It is time to get busy about our Father’s business. No more lipservice. Those talents and gifts you possess are not yours, they are just that . . . GIFTS!!! Given to you for HIS PURPOSES!!! Yes, when the Team Works, so will the DREAM! There is so much satisfaction and peace doing things that God has set in place for us to do. There is a work only YOU CAN DO!!! Just begin the journey and you will find help to keep you in the way! Reach out and touch somebody’s hand! It’s an old song, but the message is the same . . . many hands make light work. There is strength in numbers.Together, WE CAN make the dream work!
What You Make Happen for Others . . . God will Make Happen for You! 2010 – 2011: Celebrating One Year
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Women of Significance / June 2011
Romancing Your Bedroom Kathleen Ellis Contributor
Your bedroom is, in my opinion, one of the most important room in your home. Your bedroom is the first place you see in the morning, it’s where you spend time getting ready for the day, it’s where romance happens, and it’s the last place you see at night. It is a very important room! I think of my bedroom as my own private retreat. A place that is beautiful to me, peaceful, inspiring, and nurturing to my being. When I open my eyes each morning the soft yellow walls make me feel as though the sun is shining even when it’s not. The pale blue ceiling gives me a sense of tranquility and the patterns and colors of the fabrics cheer me and make me smile. I appreciate the graceful curves of my French inspired dressers and the beauty of the unique triple mirror found at a thrift shop. I have an old fashioned vanity table with a big mirror, a vintage French inspired chair and a pretty chandelier hanging from above. I sit at that vanity every day to “get myself together”. It’s “my special place”. . . a place where I can enjoy the ritual of preparing myself to face the day ahead. As I take the time there to prepare I am able to reflect on what the day may hold. It is a pleasant process (unless I’ve overslept and am running late) that I appreciate each day. I believe everyone should have such a space. I have incorporated little details into my retreat that make it special to me and my husband. Details such as candles with the scent of the roses on the Cliff walk in Newport, RI, our romantic getaway place, pictures of the two of us scattered about, colors and flowers that I love, fabrics in textures that feel good to the touch and patterns that I find beautiful, a CD player for soft classical music at night and motivational/inspirational CD’s in the morning. Furniture that has the curvy French look that I adore and artwork we’ve selected together. Is it perfect? No! Is it exactly the way I want it? Not yet! However, it does reflect my personality and style and it nurtures me each and every day! It is my romantic retreat! You can begin the journey of creating your own romantic bedroom retreat by starting with these simple steps. First, dream a little . . . that’s right . . . dream! After all
it is a bedroom! If you could create any look at all for your own personal retreat what would it be? (If you need a little inspiration check out the magazines and books that feature bedrooms) What colors make you feel calm, inspired, relaxed? What are some of the details that you imagine in your room that would make you smile? That would make you feel pampered? Special? Relaxed? What elements (continued on next page)
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Romancing Your Bedroom (continued) need to be there to help you prepare for your day? To help you unwind for the evening? What kind of lighting do you need? What scents do you smell? What do you hear? What does the furniture look like? Where is it placed? Second, create a file with pictures of your dream retreat. Get some paint swatches that represent the
colors you want to incorporate on the walls, ceiling and in the fabrics. Do you see a lively colorful palette or a tranquil monochromatic palette? Start shopping around and looking at fabrics, bedding, artwork. Whatever will help you to truly envision your new romantic retreat. Third, determine what your budget is. No matter what your personal budget may be, you can create some
version of your dream retreat. If you have a small budget right now, get creative! Can you paint? Paint the walls, paint your furniture. Create your own artwork with photos or frame pages from high quality old art books. Check out flea markets, consignment and discount shops. Do you sew? Do you know someone who sews? There is always a way to create beauty in our homes. We are limited only by our imagination! Lastly, make a plan and start the journey to creating your romantic retreat. Like a dream . . . let it unfold over
time and before you know it your dream retreat will be a reality. Kathleen Ellis, Lifestyle Designer, decorator, speaker, writer and TV personality, specializes in teaching you how to create a life of TOTAL BEAUTY which includes Inner Beauty, Outer Beauty and Surrounding Beauty. Kathleen believes your unique sense of style should be reflected in your life choices & mindset, your wardrobe and your home. She is an expert at motivating and inspiring you to create the Beautiful Life you dream of and to bloom into the Beautiful Woman you were created to be.
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Women of Significance / June 2011
The Importance of Teamwork for the 21st Century Entrepreneur Shawn Chavis Contributor
“God Never Calls the Qualified–He Simply Qualifies the Called” – Mike Murdock In today’s ever-changing environment, entrepreneurs are constantly challenged to evolve with current business trends. The technology revolution has made it easier for small businesses to transform significantly through powerful resources that provide a whole new way of doing business. Through the use of a wide array of tools, business leaders can successfully conduct business and build relationships regardless of geographic boundaries. As a result, the entrepreneurial leader is given a competitive business advantage. With these factors in mind, it can be said that leadership is a key element towards guiding business success. The entrepreneurial leader of the 21st century is one that recognizes the value in relationship building, capitalizing on opportunities and taking risks. She is also not always who you think she might be. Today’s entrepreneurial leader is much more innovative than the traditional business leader of the past- carrying with her the realization of the importance of global (diverse) issues, in addition to those issues that are environmental and social in nature. The entrepreneurial leader drives innovation further by making the decision to create an organizational culture consisting of effective teams. She understands that this must be accomplished in order to meet the demands of a competitive work environment. Teamwork is defined as “the actions of individuals, brought together for a common purpose or goal, which subordinate the needs of the individual to the needs of the group (www.yourdictionary.com ).” People tend to cling to this “Lone Ranger” myth – the idea that one hero (or she-ro) does it all alone and saves the day. Regardless of what we may believe, no one person can stand alone in leadership; there is always a team effort involved somewhere. This is not to say that everyone loves the idea of working in teams. For various reasons not everyone can work well together in group settings; however, the advantage to working alongside others towards a common goal can be very rewarding making way for less stress on each individual as well as the leader. Even colleges/universities and business schools are emphasizing the importance of team-building skills in their program curriculums to better prepare students for improved practical and interpersonal business skills. (continued on next page)
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The Importance of Teamwork for the 21st Century Entrepreneur (continued) In order to make teamwork practices effective for any business leaders have a responsibility to enforce and model team building within their organizational culture. As an entrepreneur myself, with several years of managerial practice and experience, I know this to be absolutely true. In my past managerial roles I relied heavily on my sales teams to carry out department objectives collectively. Although each sales associate was responsible for obtaining their own personal sales goals, they each also had a responsibility to their teammates. As their leader, I consistently set the standards for modeling the types of team behavior that I expected from them while encouraging full team participation; and they in turn became motivated to do the same. As a result of working together collectively, we were able to build a strong network of mutual support for one another while reaching our goals. In my current role as Editor-in-Chief of an online lifestyle magazine I am continuously humbled by each of the amazingly talented contributing writers who take the time to offer their talent towards my vision. Although I am in charge of the magazine’s content, I treat my relationship with the contributors as a team effort. I place a high value on the gifts they have to offer the magazine while we all each remain very supportive of one another’s work. None of this would be possible without mutual respect, collaboration and support; all of which are relevant models of team behavior. As mentioned earlier, everyone is not cut out to work as part of a team, but before you make the decision to go solo on that next project or venture consider the following key advantages to being a team player: •
Interpersonal Skills – When you form partnerships with others you learn how to communicate with
one another in ways that are beneficial for the sum of the whole. Group interaction will encourage members of the team to adapt to and accept others for their strengths, weaknesses, and differences. • Creativity – Achieving team goals becomes even more interesting when you have individuals who come
together and contribute various talents, skills and ideas. Each person has something special and unique to offer which can only enhance team results. • Morale – Being part of a team tends to create a sense of pride, encouragement, reward and support- all
things that produce happiness in people. Happy people produce greater results. • Network – People working together in close proximity tend to learn more about one another on both a
personal and professional level. As a result, relationships can develop beyond the team project. Making such connections can enhance individuals’ ability to recognize, create and act upon future business opportunities with one another. (continued on next page)
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Women of Significance / June 2011
The Importance of Teamwork for the 21st Century Entrepreneur (continued) • Diversity – From a global perspective, teams that consist of a variety of people from all different
backgrounds and experience stand the best chance of obtaining the most unique results. • Time – Teamwork places savings on our most precious asset- time. Proper time management allows
groups to divide and carry out responsibilities quickly and efficiently. In conclusion, any leader who supports and understands the importance that teamwork plays in business is one who holds the key to creating a culture of innovation. The 21st century entrepreneur is here to stay, those visionaries who are broadening their scopes and preparing their teams for the real world. Shawn Chavis is founder and editor-in-chief of Bronze, a weekly “blog” magazine created to symbolize the balanced strength of today’s African American woman. Bronze celebrates her lifestyle, highlights her accomplishments, embraces her beauty, and applauds her loyalty towards spiritual growth, love, and family.
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www.maxserconsulting.com 2010 – 2011: Celebrating One Year
Women of Significance / June 2011
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A WOS Interview with Harrine Freeman WOS: Hello Harrine, Women of Significance welcomes you to share your
experiences with us.Your biography says this about you: Harrine Freeman is the CEO and owner of H.E. Freeman Enterprises which provides credit repair services to help people restore their credit rating. She is an energetic speaker, author, personal finance expert, and freelance writer. She was once in $19,000 in debt, only making $21,000 a year and was successfully able to get herself out of debt without filing for bankruptcy. Her knowledge and tips have helped her diverse clientele restore their credit, learn how to manage their finances and get totally out of debt. How did you get in debt almost more than the income you were making and what made you decide to get out of the “debt dungeon”?
HF: I got into debt when I went to college. I got a free t-shirt after signing up
for a credit card. I informed the credit card company that I did not have a job and was only 17. I then started receiving pre-approved credit cards in the mail and signed up for all of those. By the time I graduated college I had 13 credit cards and was $19,000 in debt. I did not realize I had to pay back the money. I bought all kinds of ridiculous things and bought things for my friends. I graduated college and got a job. I lost my job making $21,000. That’s when the trouble started. I was unable to make the monthly payments and my credit score plummeted. I was able to find another job. I got tired of the creditors calling my job and home every 5 minutes asking for a payment. I felt it was my responsibility to pay back the debt owed. So I created a budget, I didn’t buy any new clothes, I took my lunch to work, I didn’t go out to eat or hang out with my friends. I wore the same pair of shoes for 6 months, “a red pair of shoes”. I could have bought a black pair but I had a shopping addiction. I also got a part-time in addition to my full-time job. I setup payment plans with each creditor and after 4 years was debt free. I was able to purchase a car and a home. The only bill I have now is my mortgage. I have been debt free from credit card and student loan debt for over 10 years.
WOS: You travel a lot and get to see and hear a lot of people striving to become financially solvent. Please tell us
a little about what you see and hear in your travels.
HF: I hear the horrible stories about mistakes consumers make which has caused them financial crisis such as bad
business investments, lacking financial and legal protection, foreclosing on their homes, living above their means, filing bankruptcy and not having an emergency fund or retirement account. I hear people say I don’t have any extra money but they spend $200 on a concert ticket or shopping spree. I hear others say they are about to lose their home but won’t consider renting out a room, selling items in their home or moving into a smaller home because this is their “dream home”. I hear others say they can’t do this or can’t do that or don’t want to do anything to improve their financial situation. I tell them “you can’t have it both ways - either you make the hard sacrifice now or suffer the consequences later”. Some get mad at me and don’t talk to me anymore. Some don’t listen to my advice and then call me six months or years later after a financial crisis has occurred and say “I wish I had listened to you”. Many consumers get caught up by the frenzy of the media and financial industry and believe that everyone should have a big house, big backyard and luxury car because you work hard each day. The reality is most people who have (continued on next page)
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Women of Significance / June 2011
A WOS Interview with Harrine Freeman (continued) those things are deep in debt. Things are temporary but your soul is eternal. If you continue to focus on doing things to make your flesh happy and forget about doing the things to make your soul happy and pleasing God you will have a very unhappy life.
WOS: You have become an expert because of your passion to help. Do you believe that someone’s passion can cause them to be driven to their purpose?
HF: Yes, I believe that if you don’t have passion when performing your purpose then that thing you are doing is
not your purpose. When you truly know what your purpose in life is, it is all you can think about, it is all you want to do, it fuels your soul, it gives you life and helps you to stay focused on God.
WOS: The bible says “Money Answers All Things”. Money is a currency for movement and is a powerful tool. Without stability in our finances we can many times become shipwrecked. What are your thoughts?
HF: I don’t think money answers all things because many wealthy people are unhappy. I do believe money is a
powerful tool if used wisely.You have to be a good steward over your finances or you could lose them. Sometimes God causes people to experience financial crises to help them see what is really important and help them to learn lessons about money and how they are currently living. Some people learn the lessons and some don’t. I refer to two scriptures: Matthew 6:24 —“No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other.You cannot serve both God and Money.” Hebrews 13.5 —“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said,‘I will never leave you nor forsake you’.” I believe you should live a life that does not have a lot of excess. If you have extra money left over each month after paying all of your bills and contributing to savings and retirement, it is your responsibility to help others. You can bless others by giving.
WOS: Please tell us a little bit more about yourself. I also see that you like to write and encourage women. Tell us a little more about that.
HF: I was raised by my mother. I experienced several tragedies at any early age which brought me shame and I
was an extreme introvert. I was very shy and walked with my head down. I had very low self-esteem. I didn’t start realizing my true value and worth until about 5 years ago. I had a mentor who helped me overcome a lot of emotional issues and saw the qualities I possessed as a person. Since then I have been working to become the best “me” I can be. I am very thankful for my mentor and others who gave me words of inspiration during my life. I am also thankful that God has never forsaken me. I wanted to experience a joyful, peaceful, drama free life and with God’s help, now I am. I see the pain that many women have experienced and can relate to them. It pains me that so many women are hurting and is unable to overcome their pain and experience the joy God has placed inside each of us. Some wom(continued on next page)
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A WOS Interview with Harrine Freeman (continued) en unfortunately may never overcome their pain. I decided that I didn’t want to be like the other women I saw. I provide encouragement and inspiration to women friends, family, past co-workers and even strangers. It warms my heart to help bring a smile to another woman’s face or help them see things in a different way. I love writing and sometimes have to pull myself away from my computer and go to sleep. If I can touch just one woman with my writing I feel my work is done.
WOS: You also like giving back to your community. What types of things have you done in the community? HF: I have performed volunteer work with various local organizations by delivering and preparing food for
sick individuals. I have provided food, clothing, books, and school supplies to fundraisers and personally to those around me who were in need. I have also provided monetary donations to various organizations as well as homeless people. I have talked to those who were begging for money and asked them how they got in their situation and offered them advice and words of encouragement.
WOS: What would be two things you would tell women that you have learned over the years? It does not have to be about finances?
HF: I would tell women to love God unconditionally because He first loved you. With God all things are possible.
I would also tell women to love themselves unconditionally. Your love for yourself should be greater than the love you have for anyone else. When you do this, you will not allow anyone to treat you less than a human being.You are God’s creation and now it’s time to start acting like it.
WOS: Have you always lived in the Washington D.C. area? HF: I have lived in Hampton, VA during part of my college education, I have lived in various parts of Maryland
but I was born and raised in Washington DC. I currently live in Washington DC and have done so for the past 18 years.
WOS: What are your plans for 2011-12? HF: I plan to publish my second financial book which is currently untitled. I am working on developing some
financial products to help consumers. I plan on writing additional financial books and continue to provide seminars and workshops on financial literacy.
WOS: You are sought after on television, radio and print. Tell us how you feel when God has positioned you to give wisdom in the marketplace?
HF: I cry every time. I am so blessed for my financial wisdom and so appreciative that I can help so many people
with my wisdom. I get excited every time I am interviewed for a magazine article, every time I appear on television or radio or get connected with an influential person just like it was the first time. I am extremely grateful for all of my blessings and blessings to come. (continued on next page)
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A WOS Interview with Harrine Freeman (continued) WOS: Tell us two practical things we can do to get started to change our financial course.
HF: The first thing you can do is to get connected with God. I cannot stress
this enough. God can give you the wisdom and strength to deal with any issues including your finances. God gave me the wisdom to get out of debt and the wisdom to avoid any financial crisis. The second thing you can do is create an action plan to change your financial course. You have to be disciplined and determined. You may also have to make some sacrifices but it will be worth it in the end. If you aren’t sure how to create an action there are many available on the internet at websites such as Yahoo, MSN and Bankrate.You can also contact a financial coach, financial planner or financial advisor to help you create a plan for your financial course.
WOS: Tell us the name of your latest book and where we can get the book. HF: My current book is titled, How to Get Out of Debt: Get an “A” Credit Rating for Free. My book is available
at Borders, Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com.
Harrine Freeman, Financial Planner, Speaker, FreelanceWriter, HSAN Advisory Member,TV Producer; Author of How to Get Out of Debt: Get an “A” Credit Rating for Free http://www.hefreemanenterprises.com; http://www.facebook.com/harrinefreeman; http://www.twitter.com/harrine; http://hefreemanenterprises.blogspot.com
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Senior Talk: Your “Soul” Doesn’t Age B. Mae Allen Contributor
We have all heard the saying that a person has an old soul. Let’s think about this. Does your soul age? I would say no. Let’s look at it from this perspective. Our soul, the part of us that God put into our body will actually never grows any older than the day we were established. It is there in the beginning and has the desire to walk out God’s plan and to get us back home. Its purpose is to keep us in touch with God throughout our life. Our soul does the same thing for us when we are a newborn as it will do when we are 70 years and beyond. Our soul is our link to heaven. When we are born, we are born into sin. The great news is that our souls remember our future from what it was shown before we were born. Our soul is our guidance and it gives our lives their true meaning. Without our soul, we are an empty shell wondering about the earth. So why are some of us, even in the Church, living as if we have lost our souls? Could it be because of the conflict of believing what our souls know, that we are the Kings and Queens and we have dominion over all that God has given us. Our soul knows this to be true because God said it.
So why do so many us worry about the condition of our body so much that we forget the condition of our soul? God wants us to prosper, even as our soul prospers. To do this we need to be in good standing with God through the renewing of our minds. Our mind and flesh are in constant struggle with our soul. Our soul knows our future, while our mind processes the past. God knows from dust our bodies came and to dust they will return, but our soul can have everlasting life.
Like Abraham and Sarah, about 55% of us will live long enough to see the decaying of our bodies. The eyes don’t see as well as they once did, our joints are not as flexible, our bladder may not be as trusting as they once were and the mind may lose a few details. If we never looked in the mirror or felt the pains of aging, we would Let’s look at the example of Abraham and Sarah. They feel forever young. Nothing would be out of our minds had to learn, as taught in Genesis, that their bodies reach, but would we ever reach out for God. Would can be as old as it wishes, but God can do with it what our minds ever give into the possibility that our bodies He likes. From looking at their physical bodies, they are fragile and temporary and we have to depend on our figured there was no way that either of them could bear Father’s guidance to run this race called life? We may children. Sarah was past the menopause stage of life not be able to do all of those things we use to do. The and Abraham didn’t know anything about Viagra! As far mile we could once run in 15 minutes may now take 25 as they were concern, all systems were closed. But God minutes (or more), but we can finish the course. Now knew differently. He knew what He had spoken to their we know how and when to lean into the curve and keep souls before they were in their mother’s womb. He also the wind at our backs. When it seems too hard to go knew their souls were vibrant and faithful enough to on, we press in because we know from experience the handle the task. Even though the possibility was quesvictory is at hand. We have learned through faith, when tioned, God knew that through this walk, faith would be God puts it in our path and says run, He will assure it is established throughout generations. completed. (continued on next page)
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Senior Talk: Your “Soul” Doesn’t Age (continued) These bodies are temporary vehicles. Just like a vehicle is a temporary carrier. No matter how much money you put into it to make it look good, how many valves are replaced or how often the engine is flushed, sooner or later, your body and that car are going to breakdown. Our car may leave us stranded on the street and our bodies in a hospital room. Fortunately, God’s lifetime warranty is much better than the automotive industry. God plans everything just the way He wants it to operate. Our bodies are the temples for our souls. Without the wisdom, knowledge and instructions given to our souls, how will we know how to keep our bodies healthy?
journey, how would you have gain the wisdom to know things could have been different? Since our souls are as vibrate today as from the start, we have received the blessings and the strength of character God has developed in us through the years? What is stopping us from walking in the victory that God has already won for us? It is time to travel, spoil our grandchildren, take up new hobbies, or change the world. What can stop us? Nothing, but our own disbelief. The path each of us has traveled is no surprise to God. He has given us wisdom to share with others he has placed in our path along the way. Think of all the problems you helped to solve and troubling situations you have walked others through.
Our soul knows the body must be healthy for it to achieve its purpose. Remember our soul can be undernourished and starved. Without feeding our soul with the Word of God, it gets hungry just like our body. Spending time with God, praying, fasting, confessing, worshiping and reading the Bible all feed the soul and keeps our connection strong.
So when you feel those aches and pains, say Thank You God for the ability to feel and move. When you eye sight starts to dim, say Thank You God for all that I have seen. When you are feeling old in your mind, say Thank You Lord for letting me mature in your love and to know you intimately. Thank you Lord for letting me walk out my souls purpose so that I arrive home on empty.
So never think of the physical part of growing older as a curse, it is truly a blessing. Remember the saying, “If I knew then what I know now, I would have done things differently.” Well, our soul is still the same as it was the day we were born. If our bodies never walked out this
The soul says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Mae Allen recently retired from two careers to start on her newest journey. She retired from 47 years in hospital services (position from OB/GYN nurses aid, to Admitting Manager to the administrator of the Outpatient Psychiatric department) and as the owner of her catering service Mae’s Specialties. As she continues to teach Sunday school and manages the nursery, she finds time to volunteers at a local hospital, senior center and provides administrative assistance in her daughter’s consulting firms. God has continued to show her more. She recently finished writing the first in a series of children’s books and is currently working on the illustrations. In retirement her plate is as full as ever, but it is filled with God’s portion for her soul’s purpose. As mother of four, grandmother of one and too many adopted children and young adults to count, she has a new walk and stronger strut than ever. Now she knows more than ever, that this walk is divinely planned by God.
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Purpose in Your Pain Effective Ways to Handling Pain Dr. Faith C. Chilongo Contributor
Pain is Good.
Pain causes us to grow. We encounter God in a more desperate way when we are experiencing pain. We lean on Him and we cry out to Him. We must not rush through the pain. In our own human nature we tend to want to not experience pain, we want to be comfortable, as soon as we think something is going to cause us pain we run from it. But pain is one of God’s greatest tools. The enemy always has to go to God before inflecting us with anything, as demonstrated in the story of Job. God says yes to our pain and then He sits with us through it, because He knows the end. Sometimes we put ourselves through a lot of pain like with David and Bathsheba or Samson and Delilah, but God meets us in our self-imposed paid and uses it for His glory. The Lord once told me pain was like an epidural needle used to help women in the birthing process. If you move while the needle is being put in, you may become paralyzed and abort the baby or cause the birthing to be much tougher. Likewise, if we move to quickly out of pain or while it is being inflicted, we can become paralyzed and abort the very thing God is trying to birth from our pain. God reminded me that if I sit still in it and let Him work through it, the pain soon will be gone; and
what will be left will be a product of His grace and beauty. 1 Peter 5:10 says that after we have suffered a little while; may the God of grace, strengthen, establish and perfect everything that concerns us. Romans 8 reminds us “For we know the suffering of these times are not worthy to the glory which shall be revealed in us…..For we look not at what is seen but what is unseen for what is seen is temporal and what is unseen is eternal…For this very reason we faint not, though our outward man is perishing, our inward man is being renewed day by day... For we know that all things work together for the good of them that love the lord and are called according to His purpose day (I paraphrased, several of my favorite verses in Romans 8). Pain Births Purpose.
I would not be who I am today, if I had not been rejected, abandoned and broken. In our brokenness and in our weakness the strength of the Lord is made perfect. God does incredible things through broken people. He does not turn a broken and contrite heart away. In our pain He draws us close and we become just like Him. “But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are (continued on next page)
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Purpose in Your Pain - Effective Ways to Handling Pain (continued) So count it all joy my friends when you are faced with various trials and tribulations because, you know the testing of your faith develops perseverance and perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything (James 1:3-4). GOD NEVER WASTES ANYTHING! Everything we alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that have ever gone through good or bad, God is using for His life may be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at His greater glory! He uses everything, every tear, every work in us, but life is at work in you (2 Corinthians 4:7-12).” trial, to make you more like Him. God allows us to be broken so our hearts can be broken for others and so Don’t you see beloved, when we are broken then we we can help rescue them from that which He rescued us are whole in Christ. His glory and His excellencies are shown through our futility. Psalm 103, says He remem- from. bers our frame He knows we are made out of dust. It is really important to understand that our pain has God never puts more on us than we can handle and He purpose, that in order to birth the promise we must allows us to be put through circumstances and He uses first endure the pain. Pain is metaphorically like childeven our mistakes. When we give Him our pain, He uses birth, even though we experience birth pangs, pushing it for His glory. and contending; if we persevere, eventually we push Pain unyielded to God breeds bitterness and frustration, it hardens your heart, it leaves you disillusioned. But when we say God have your way in this pain, have your way in my brokenness, His Glory is shown. When we go low, He is lifted high. That’s what we live for right? We live to make Him known, to make God famous. We go low, so He can be lifted high. May God be glorified through our pain and suffering!! Get the Glory Jesus! Only you can turn ashes into beauty and give us garments of praise for our mourning! What an awesome, sovereign, kind God! Who’s goodness is matchless; your love endless, your grace bountiless, there is none like you in all the earth. Great are you and greatly to be praised! Exalt the Lord in the pain, in the confusion, in doubt and fear! Lift Him higher than what you feel and what you see, it is preeminence reign over every one of your situations. Let His love be a banner over you. For He is good! And His mercy endures forever!
out promise. There is a Word of promise spoken over you and then the process begins and the process usually evolves a lot of pain, a lot of dying to yourself. The Word says that before a seed can bear fruit, it must first go into the ground and die and then come back up. The pain is the dying of your flesh and ideas of what and who God was to you. The pain allows you to know Him intimately and the longer the process, the deeper the pain, the greater the impact you make in the nations. There are several ways to cope with pain and depression. Research has shown that women who utilize religious coping mechanisms fare better than those who don’t. It is important to stay connected to God in difficult times. Here are some ways to do that. 1. Prayer and meditation 2. Fellowshipping with other believers (continued on next page)
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Purpose in Your Pain - Effective Ways to Handling Pain (continued) 3. Reading the Word
6. Go for walks
4. Worship
7. Talk to someone you trust
5. Don’t push God away, hold on to Him even in your brokenness
8. Spend time with your spouse
Research also proves that if we can be physically healthy we will be emotionally healthy. During difficult times make sure to: 1. Eat healthy, including lots of vegetables and fruit 2. Exercise, simple walking helps release endorphins that help change ones mood 3. Drink a lot of water
9. If feelings last for more than six weeks or get to much consult a psychologist. 10. Never give up this is just part of your prophetic journey, God is birthing destiny. May the name of the Lord be lifted high over every circumstance in your life today, may you persevere and be determined not to rush through the pain, but to get everything that you are meant to get out of it!
During these times it is also important ot learn how to express your feelings, here are some ways to do that. 1. Journal your feelings 2. Paint 3. Listen to music 4. Sing 5. Write music Dr. Faith C. Chilongo, Founder and Director ofWarring Ministries International, is a lover of Jesus and His people. She desires nothing more than to see people reconciled to God and to one another. God uses Faith strongly in the areas of the prophetic, deliverance, healing, intercession and worship. He allows her to effectively usher in the presence of the Lord through worship; birth and mentor leaders in ministry; and preach theWord of God. In 2007 Faith foundedWarring Ministries.This is a cross cultural ministry aimed at developing and training men and women in the areas of the Prophetic, Deliverance,Worship,Warfare and intimacy with God. Faith is also the founder of theYoung Apostolic Leaders Alliance and the administrator of the 818 Movement. Faith has a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Regent University. She uses her understanding of mental health in her deliverance ministry, and in counseling. She plans to develop counseling centers and orphanages that will tend to the spiritual and mental health of women and children. She has a heart for the broken and hurting people of the world (particularly her native home of Africa, and those affected by war, poverty, AIDS). She enjoys friends, family, shopping and seeing the manifested presence of God.Warring Ministries is a facet of the international ministry God has given her.
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How Musical Toys and Outdoor Toys Aid in a Child’s Development There are many toys that are not actually called educational but certainly help to increase a child’s spatial or motor skills in some way as well as creating an opportunity for their imagination to work overtime.
pushing or pulling buttons or levers on a musical table designed for toddlers. The reward for learning what to do is the music which is often accompanied by flashing lights or other noises besides musical ones.
Outdoor toys such as balls and skipping ropes not only provide the opportunity for healthy exercise, but can be used in any number of imaginative games. In addition, balls help to develop small motor skills and even gross motor skills as the child grows older. They can be kicked, thrown and bounced in any number of ways and even just learning how to pick up and hold a small ball often fascinates a toddler who can only just crawl.
But it is not only the fun of learning what to do to hear the noise that is educational, but often what they hear teaches them something too. For instance, they can learn colors and numbers as well as their ABC from such musical toys. Hearing rhymes or simple songs over again also helps them to memorize words. Musical toys for older children often require children to develop small motor skills to be able to play with them. Some toys such as xylophones can be used by littlies as they happily dong away without needing to know how to play a tune; then they can be used by an older child who is able to read the booklet to learn how to play a recognizable tune.
Many outdoor toys such as sand-pits, pools or outdoor tables with sections designed for water play can enhance your child’s play time as well as their motor skills and teach them things about gravity that they do not even realize they are learning. Musical toys are usually indoor toys and these too can be considered educational in that they aid a child’s development in many ways. First they have to learn what to do to make the toy play music. This could be as simple as
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Testimonies WOW!!!!! WOW!!!! AND WOWWEEEEE!!!! Hallelujah, hallelujah and a BIG Amen!!!! Girrrrrl, the Lord is moving you to “LARGE”!!!!! I love it!!! This powerful and most beautiful Celebration issue is tremendous!!!! I will send this to my sister and friends ASAP!!!! Absolutely marvelous!!!! The Lord is going to EXPLODE this wonderful mission for women around the world . . . oh!!! I am so excited for what this is going to do for the new generation of young women! Claudia, how proud I was to see her article. I will finish my finals today and go back to read all the of the WOS stories!
Edith
Dr. Cheryl, your 1st Anniversary issue is outstanding. I can’t wait to see more from Women of Significance. Be Blessed!”
Lanette
Dr. Cheryl, I have been receiving your magazine through my aunt in DC. Forwarding to one and all! Such a blessing and may God continue to bless your work in reaching out to lost souls.
Mere Boladuadua-k Bula, Fiji Islands
Many Blessings on WOS, Dr. Cheryl, and the whole team! Thank you for the opportunity to be apart of your anointed publication! It was an honor. The magazine is a blessing to all that read it . . . may you continue to soar high and reach the nations! Much Love!
Jessica GodsBella Martin
Dr. Cheryl! Just read the monthly publication and I want to thank you & the publication team for the business spotlight. I love receiving the communique! It is full of insight and encouragement. Full of blessings! Thanks again and God bless the team of Women of Significance.
Kathy David
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Women of Significance
Spotlight Each month we will highlight our Women of Significance so that each of you can get to know one another. Please let us keep each other in prayer and pray that we all fulfill our destiny. Rev. Marykaye Jacquet
Suvondra L. Montgomery
Associate Minister, First Baptist Church, Charleston, WV, Outstanding conference speaker, facilitator, preacher and teacher with a heart and passion for the people of God. www.revmarykaye.com
Associate Minister, College and Young Adult Minister, and a leader in the Women’s Ministry of White Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Greensboro, NC, Min. Montgomery is a dynamic, spirit-filled woman of God, and an advisor to the Legendary Ladies of Winston-Salem State University. suvondra@hotmail.com
Birgit Zepf ‘Soar on Wings like Eagles Ministries International,’ incorporated by Birgit in July 2010, was designed to help believers live in the fullness of Christ, to draw them higher in the spirit allowing them to ‘soar’ above their problems and issues, and to lead them to enter the ‘Promised Land’. www.soaronwingslikeeagles.org
Glenda Phillips Lee From Manhattan, NY, Ambassador Glenda Phillips Lee is Presiding Pastor of Star of Hope, Inc. International Gospel Artist, “BORN TO SING”, Founder of The Deborah Generation Outreach Headquarters woman’s fellowship, Harlem, NYC.
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Jolene Drummond Jolene has a call to Apostolic intercession and to preach the gospel of Christ Jesus. GOD has given Jolene a heart to ignite a spiritual hunger for people to pursue their purpose in GOD for Kingdom Advancement. Her passion is that the Holy fire of GOD will burn on the altar of our hearts and never go out. Leviticus 6:1
Gayelee Reynolds Pastor of Missions - Fundraising, Cross Connection Outreach, Vista, CA. Pastor Gayelee has a heart for distributing the “Talking Bibles” to Mozambique, Africa and the world.
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Live a Clean Green Life with Eco Friendly Products Earth has a fantastic abundance of nature that is getting depleted every day. This is primarily happening due to human influence through wastes and dangerous man made products that are detrimental to nature. With an increase of inorganic and unnatural products, your life and the nature that surrounds you is in great jeopardy. In this scenario, you can create a change in your life and take the green road that will help in making your surroundings healthier. If you wish to lead a clean and green life then there are many interesting eco friendly products out there that you can consider. From apparels and bags to jewelry and swimwear, you can opt for eco shopping options in all these areas. One of the primary areas in which you can bring about a drastic change in your life is with the sort of clothing you sport. Man made fabrics and textures are not only harmful to the environment, they can be really bad for your skin and your health. This is where the need has arisen for green clothing that is prepared from organic and natural raw materials. Not only do they take care of your skin in the gentlest manner, they are quite attractive and original too. If you are a person who is always updated on the fashion trends, you will be one of those people who loves to sport trendy bags. In this area too you can take the green route as there are eco fashion bags and accessories that have come around with a unique look that will appeal to one and all. In terms of alternate clothing needs for swimwear too, you can get eco friendly options. By engaging in green shopping, you can get your hands on products that are truly healthy in every possible way. One of the primary products that are always in demand is jewelry.You can get your kind of jewelry in many stores and outlets around you but you can now get green options for your ornamental needs too. With the option of environment friendly products in jewelry,
nowadays you can sport a great look without harming the environment in any way. A lot of people need to use beauty products to take care of their look, the face and the body. Chemical products can be really detrimental for your skin in the long run and disposing them will cause great environmental hazards too. This is where you can get the ideal solutions by using beauty items made from natural products. The world is taking a turn towards the green side as mankind is beginning to witness the side effects of ignoring nature. There are many human activities that contribute steadily in the deterioration of the environment. By opting to use organic products, you can bring about a significant change and promote the benefits of these wonderful options too. Nowadays, you can get your hands on a wide range of green items in an eco friendly store. With the help of the amazing advantages offered by these green avenues, you can lead a green life that will keep you and the nature protected. http://www.greennbrown.com
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The Assignment Series Obedience To Your Assignment May Create A Temporary Season of Loss
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Some Losses are Avoidable, Some Losses areVital. Obedience is rarely easy. our assignment will require many acts of obedience. Some of those instructions will appear to create losses. However, these challenges are necessary for long term gains. God has a reason for every demand put on your life.
Moses experienced the loss of status and position when he chose to suffer affliction with the people of God rather than enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season (Hebrews 11:24-27). Moses saw the bigger picture. He saw the future. “And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not”. (Galatians 6:9) Abraham was tested with the potential loss of his son Isaac-his promise. “ And it came to pass after these things, that God did temp Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am. And he, Take now thy son, thine only son Isaac, whom thou lovest, and get thee into the land of Moriah; and offer him there for a burnt offering upon one of the mountains which I will tell thee of ” (Genesis 22:1,2) Abraham persisted in serving God through seasons of loss. We are not exempt from challenges especially when you are called to lead. How you look at your situation and your reaction to your challenge will determine your length of stay in your circumstance. Sometimes you may be called to deliver the very people you find yourself being in. If you are called to a “wealthy place” God may allow you to know what it is NOT to have in some areas so that as your wealth is restore your “passion and understanding” will be used to minister and assist many. During these seasons you must always seek what God wants to change in you. I have been through seasons of financial challenges to find that God used these situations to KNOW what others go through who have no hope in God. I must say if the truth be told IF I DID NOT KNOW the LORD I truly don’t know what I would have done. I have a respect for the poor, for single parents, for those in poverty whereas I would not have understood what emotional, physical and psychological effects take place going through these stages. In each situation I found myself in I also discovered a plan of action where I could help others. My circumstances were a result of divorce, unemployment and the like. Yet I loved and trusted God through the processes. I did not always understand and I did not always feel like going forth BUT God encouraged me when no one else could. He strengthened me when no one else could and gave me unspeakable joy when by all means those without God would have turned to drinking, drugs and other vices. I am certainly glad that we serve a God who is faithful. When He allows challenges to come your way He wants to see the conquerer come forth. He wants to see the Finisher in you come forth. He is bringing out his word that is IN you.You CAN do all things through Christ who strengthens you. I yet live because God has been my all sufficiency and truly Jesus has been my Lord and KING. Everything you see me do and say is with God as my lead. The losses cannot compare to my gains. When you think that God has forgotten you….He is quiet to let the CHAMPION rise in you.You are a CHAMPION! Use the time of seeming losses to draw unto God and know Him. (Excerpts are taken from The Assignment by Mike Murdock)
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Pamper Yourself . . . Take a ‘Spring Break’ with fragrances that make you smell like a million and feel like a million!
Gifts • Hands & Feet • Bath & Body Fragrances • At Home • For Women & Men
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MOVIE PICKS Unstoppable . . . With an unmanned, half-mile-long freight train
barreling toward a city, a veteran engineer and a young conductor race against the clock to prevent a catastrophe. Starring Denzel Washington, Chris Pine and Rosario Dawson.
Invictus . . . Nelson Mandela, in his first term as the South African
President, initiates a unique venture to unite the apartheid-torn land, enlist the national rugby team on a mission to win the 1995 Rugby World Cup. Starring Morgan Freeman, Matt Damon and Tony Kgoroge.
Hannah Montana: The Movie . . . As Hannah
Montana’s popularity begins to take over her life, Miley Stewart, on the urging from her father takes a trip to her hometown of Crowley Corners, Tennessee to get some perspective on what matters in life the most. Starring Miley Cyrus, Emily Osment and Billy Ray Cyrus.
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Standing in the Gap
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